Practical Nurse Program

The Practical Nurse Diploma program prepares learners to become compassionate, professional, and effective health care providers in a complex medical system. Upon successful completion of the Practical Nurse Diploma program and the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE), graduates will be eligible for licensure with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA). Practical Nurses provide high quality nursing care in the areas of medicine, pediatrics, maternity, community, mental health, and seniors care.

The PN Diploma program can be completed in less than two (2) years. However, there is the option of taking the program over a longer period of time, provided that all nursing courses are taken within a four-year (4-year) time frame.

Of special note:

1) PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition) for some courses in this program may be available to learners who possess the following qualifications:

2) Transfer credits may be considered for courses taken at other colleges that are comparable to courses required in the Bow Valley College PN program. Please fill out the Transfer Credit form and submit to the Office of the Registrar.

3) PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition) on a selection of courses is available only once a learner has been accepted or waitlisted to the program. PLAR is a type of assessment that is used to evaluate skills and knowledge gained outside of a formal learning environment. The Office of the Registrar will provide the appropriate application form and submit it to the appropriate school for consideration. Click here to see the PLAR policy (look for the "Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) Policy").